Aside from its use as a seasoning, the benefits of black garlic are its mineral content–calcium, iron, and manganese. In addition to this, aged black garlic is known to help reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of certain illnesses.
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Aged Black Garlic Benefits
Most people think of garlic as a spice for flavoring food, but it has nutritional value as well. It becomes a functional food when it’s aged because aged black garlic has been found to contain higher levels of antioxidants than regular garlic, as well as compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and S-allylcysteine which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Studies have also found that black garlic can help reduce high cholesterol, improve glucose metabolism, and stimulate the immune system. It is also believed to have anti-cancer properties, as well as being beneficial for digestive health.
Can You Age Garlic at Home? How Long Does It Take?
Aging garlic at home is possible, though it can be tedious and quite time consuming. It takes around 8-10 weeks for garlic to fully age and turn black. During that time, the garlic should be stored in a dark place away from direct sunlight. It’s also important to keep the garlic at a steady temperature and check it regularly for signs of mold.
While the cloves are aging, their chemical structure changes due to the presence of enzymes and amino acids that create natural sugars. This sugar is what gives black garlic its unique flavor and dark coloration.
As the process continues, the natural sugars are broken down and caramelized. This creates a complex flavor profile and gives black garlic its distinctive sweet-tangy taste. As well as changing the flavor of garlic, this process also enhances certain health benefits.
Aged Black Garlic for Cancer Prevention
Research suggests that garlic may be beneficial for cancer prevention. Studies have shown that the sulfur compounds in garlic are able to inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells and reduce the risk of certain tumors. Eating aged black garlic is one way to increase your intake of these compounds, as it has a higher concentration than regular garlic.
Aged Black Garlic for Diabetes
Some studies also suggest that garlic can help reduce the risk of diabetes. Animal studies have shown that garlic is able to lower blood glucose levels and increase insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Regular consumption of aged black garlic may be beneficial in this regard as its antioxidant properties can help protect the body from oxidative stress and damage.
Aged Black Garlic for Cardiovascular Health
Aged black garlic may also be beneficial for cardiovascular health. It is known to reduce inflammation and lower triglyceride levels, which can help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, aged black garlic can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Aged Black Garlic and Brain Health
Aged black garlic has also been linked to improved brain health. The antioxidants in aged black garlic can help protect the brain from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation. This can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. Additionally, aged black garlic has compounds that can help boost mood and energy levels, making the benefits of black garlic clear for those experiencing depression or anxiety.
Black Garlic Gummies
Aged black garlic gummies are another easy way to increase your intake of the beneficial compounds found in aged black garlic. These gummies have all the same benefits of fresh or aged black garlic, but they come in a convenient and tasty form.
They also contain other beneficial ingredients such as vitamins and minerals which can help boost overall health. Aged black garlic gummies may be especially beneficial for those who don’t enjoy the taste or smell of regular garlic, as they provide the same health benefits without the distinctive flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many potential health benefits associated with consuming aged black garlic including cancer prevention, diabetes reduction, cardiovascular improvement, and brain health benefits. It is also possible to age your own garlic at home or take aged black garlic gummies for a convenient and tasty way to get the same benefits. Incorporating aged black garlic into your diet can help improve your overall health and well-being.
Interesting read. Just wondering though, would one be able to find black garlic in the grocery store?
You may or may not find it locally. If it’s not available near you, online is always an option.
This is so interesting! It always amazes me when one specific thing can have so many health benefits! The fact these come as gummies makes them even more appealing!
So true–more and more supplements are in gummie form.
Wow I didn’t realize you eat black garlic and age garlic yourself! i will definitely try this!
Do give it a try. Tell me how you like it.
This is interesting, I don’t like to eat so much garlic. But it has really nice benefits. Thank you for sharing!
It doesn’t taste like regular garlic so you might like it.
I never considered aging garlic, I’ve never even heard of it until now. I am so gonna do it, I had no idea it is that healthy.
Yes, it’s worth trying out for something so inexpensive.
I have not heard of black garlic before. It sounds like a magic food! There’s so many benefits to eating it or adding it to a dish. Going to add this to my supermarket list!
It really is worth giving a try for the health benefits!
I have never seen black garlic before. I’m curious to give it a try. It surely has a lot of benefits, so that’s great.
I’ve been hearing more and more about black garlic! I’d really like to try it one day.
I didn’t know black garlic was so good for medicinal reasons – I have never tried it, but perhaps I should